Unwrapping Joy

“Joy is what happens to us when we allow ourselves to recognize how good things really are.” ― Marianne Williamson

I meet with a faith based group of close friends a couple of times a month. During the holidays, we share in a special event where we get together, have yummy snacks and unwrap a small gift.

Inside of every gift is a WORD. Yes, a word. This word is always something meaningful. This year, when I opened my gift, my word was JOY.

Now, I have to tell you that the night before this get together, I was not feeling Joy. As a matter of fact, I was feeling a bit of anxiety over a family issue that I was not sure about. I did not sleep well that night and said a small prayer in the morning for guidance and strength.

When I opened my gift and saw Joy, I felt immense peace. This meant to me that no matter what the conditions around me, God wants me to feel Joy this holiday season. I also took it to mean that I should rejoice and be glad in what is present in my life, because truly, I am blessed.

After that event, I started to see the word Joy everywhere. It was mentioned several times in a book I read that night. The next day when I pulled into the parking lot at work, there was “Unwrapping Joy” written on the marquee at the nearby church! Also I stopped at a retail store for a few gifts and JOY was actually an ornament on the Christmas tree. Joy was everywhere.

Though there is always something that can cause us a heavy heart, it is important we remember to breathe, live, celebrate and be joyous.

May you be joyous in these days leading up to Christmas! What is bringing you Joy in your life today?

I have had that same experience…once heaven has placed our attention on something then we begin to see it everywhere…yes, it IS a message from on high.

Once I dreamed that my young son was jumping around on a bed having a grand time with a friend. In the dream I was standing with another person, and knowing some difficult situations that had already been in my young son’s life, I asked him how he was still so happy. He sat at the edge of the bed with a big smile, and said, “I CAN’T stop my Joy! I’m BLESSED!”

Your wonderful post reminded me of that dream, and hey, I just realized it’s another JOY word for you to see! AND, (this is why I’m so blessed to have met such wonderful bloggers as yourself) your post is a total reminder to me of how wonderfully blessed I am. I think today I shall nurse that ‘feeling’ of being blessed

I pray and stand in faith with you that ALL family matters are resolved peacefully and quickly. Carry the happy ending in your mind all day today.

Marianne, your words are so beautiful and I have been graced to be in your presence this year. I have met so many wonderful friends by blogging and I count you among them! Your dream of your son encourages me greatly and I thank you for sharing that with me. May God Bless you this holiday season! xo Joanne

Reading your blog brings me great JOY! Today, everywhere I go, I will be thinking of you and the word JOY. I am going to make an effort to find JOY today. I am even calling my sister in law in Montreal today, her name is JOY! Thanks for today’s theme!
You have a lovely heart. It is a pleasure to learn from you. Hugs your way.
Daleen

What a wonderful idea to give a word for a present. My joy is that, today, I received by post the book you recommended ; Travelling Mercies by Anne Lamott. I am looking forward to a great read before bed tonight. Thank you and a joyous Christmas to you and your family.

Thank you! I just read a beautiful blog post today! I would like to share it with you. I know you would enjoy along with your fellow bloggers! Search Kite Tale and read the post today on optimism! It is awesome. You may even want to purchase her book! Great gift for a grandchild!

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Hi There!

I’m a Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania blogger, published author, wedding/event planner, and a recovering perfectionist! I love to look for grace in everyday life. Love, marriage, faith, children, and grandchildren are my favorite topics. Join me as I look for joyous moments.

Join me on my graceful journey.

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